Moss No. 3 Third Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

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Summary

3 Third Dam, located in Russell, Virginia, is a privately owned earth dam with a primary purpose of storing tailings. Standing at a height of 216 feet, this dam has a storage capacity of 6114 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 61.4 acres with a drainage area of 1.1 square miles. While the dam's hazard potential is currently classified as undetermined, its condition assessment is marked as 'Not Rated', indicating a need for further evaluation.

Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Virginia, Moss No. 3 Third Dam is subject to state regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement. Although the dam's last inspection date, condition assessment date, emergency action plan (EAP) preparation status, and other critical information are currently unspecified, the dam's structure and purpose provide valuable data for water resource and climate enthusiasts. The dam's location, design features, and associated risks make it a noteworthy case study for those interested in environmental conservation and water management.

With its significant storage capacity and potential impact on the surrounding area, Moss No. 3 Third Dam serves as an essential infrastructure for tailings management. As the dam's risk assessment details, emergency preparedness measures, and regulatory oversight continue to evolve, it remains a focal point for monitoring and research in the field of water resource management and climate resilience. For enthusiasts interested in the intersection of infrastructure, environmental protection, and hazard mitigation, Moss No. 3 Third Dam presents a compelling case study with ample opportunities for further investigation and analysis.

Dam Height

216

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

61.4

Hydraulic Height

216

Drainage Area

1.1

Nid Storage

6114

Structural Height

216

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

Nid Height

216
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.